Multiple hoist delivery system for delivering parcels using unmanned aerial vehicles

ABSTRACT

A multiple hoist system is used with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for delivering parcels. An example of the multiple hoist system comprises two or more hoists that are independently operable, meaning that a first hoist can lower or raise a first line independently of using a second hoist to raise or lower a second line. The hoists can independently raise and lower their associated lines to allow the UAV to deliver multiple parcels to multiple delivery locations, or the hoists can synchronously raise and lower the associated lines together so that larger parcels can be delivered using the UAV. The hoists can be comprised within a body of the multiple hoist system. The body can further include a securing device for releasably securing the multiple hoist system to the UAV.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a non-provisional patent application claiming priority benefitto provisional U.S. Patent App. No. 62/942,493,titled “Multiple HoistDelivery System for Delivering Parcels Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles,”filed on Dec. 2, 2019 and incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND

Delivering parcels using drones, in particular unmanned aerial vehicles(UAVs), is becoming a reality. Currently, there are some UAVs thatdeliver parcels by lowering the parcel downward from the UAV using aline. Lowering parcels downward from an altitude of the UAV isbeneficial because it allows the UAV to remain at a safe distance abovea surface, so that it can avoid interaction with objects and people.This increases the safety of UAV delivery, and it allows UAV delivery toa greater number of locations, such as locations that would be difficultfor a UAV to traverse if it were to deliver a parcel close to thesurface.

The drawback, however, is that current systems have only one line. Thisrestricts these systems to delivering a single parcel or one group ofparcels to a single location. Once the parcels are released from theline, the UAV must navigate back to a loading point to pick up anotherparcel and continue delivery.

SUMMARY

At a high level, aspects described herein relate to a UAV having amultiple hoist system. The multiple hoist system comprises at least twohoists that are independently operable. By having independently operablehoists, a first line associated with a first hoist can be loweredindependently of a second line associated with a second hoist. Thisallows for multiple parcels to be loaded onto the UAV and delivered tomultiple delivery locations. This also allows for a single, largerparcel to be secured at multiple points using both the first and secondlines. The lines can be synchronously lowered or raised to deliver thelarger parcel. In this way, the multiple hoist system provides for amore versatile UAV delivery system.

Another aspect of the multiple hoist system includes a body that housesthe at least two hoists. The body can include a securing device, such asa securing hook, latch, threaded system, etc. that releasably engages asecuring area of the UAV. In this manner, the multiple hoist system canbe easily removed from and attached to a UAV.

This summary is intended to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that is further described in the Detailed Descriptionsection of this disclosure. The Summary is not intended to identify keyor essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intendedto be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subjectmatter. Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of thetechnology will be set forth in part in the description that follows,and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art uponexamination of the disclosure or learned through practice of thetechnology.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present technology is described in detail below with reference tothe attached drawing figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an example operating environment employing a multiple hoistsystem with a UAV, in accordance with an aspect described herein;

FIG. 2 is a side view of an example multiple hoist system affixed to aUAV, in accordance with an aspect described herein;

FIG. 3 is a side view of another example multiple hoist system having aside surface of a body removed for viewing within the body, inaccordance with an aspect described herein;

FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of another example multiple hoistsystem, in accordance with an aspect described herein;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a UAV engaging in independent operation ofa first and second hoist of an example multiple hoist system, inaccordance with an aspect described herein;

FIG. 6 is a side view of an example hoist having a line in use withcurved contact points, in accordance with an aspect described herein;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a UAV engaging in synchronous operation ofa first and second hoist of an example multiple hoist system, inaccordance with an aspect described herein;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example method of deliveringparcels using a multiple hoist system;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an example computing device suitable foruse with aspects of the present technology; and

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a UAV with a single reel and multiplelines for synchronous raising and lowering of a parcel, in accordancewith an aspect described herien.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of example operating environment 100 forUAV delivery using a multiple hoist delivery system. Illustrated in theexample operating environment 100 is UAV 102 having an attached multiplehoist delivery system 104. UAV 102 is in communication via network 106to on-board computing device 108. It should be understood that operatingenvironment 100 shown in FIG. 1 is an example of one suitable operatingenvironment, and that other arrangements, including more or lesscomponents, are also suitable.

UAV 102 can be any type of UAV. In general, a UAV includes anyflight-capable vehicle that can be controlled remotely by a human pilot,operate autonomously based on a set of received or determinedinstructions, or a combination of both. UAVs may include verticaltake-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, which are aircraft that can hover,take off, or land vertically or near vertically. Examples of theseinclude single-rotor VTOL aircraft, such as helicopters, or multi-rotorVTOL aircraft. UAV is also intended to include conventional take-off andlanding (CTOL) aircraft. CTOL aircraft generally take off and land overa distance. Many CTOLs include fixed-wing aircraft that use an airfoilfor forward flight advantages. UAV is also intended to include aircraftusing a combination of rotor(s) and a fixed wing. Thus, while UAV 102 isillustrated as a fixed-wing CTOL aircraft, in practice, it may be anytype of UAV, including a multi-rotor VTOL aircraft.

As illustrated, UAV 102 has attached multiple hoist system 104. Multiplehoist system 104 is configured to be releasably secured to UAV 102.Multiple hoist system 104 includes a plurality of hoists that areindependently movable. In this way, one or more parcels may be loweredand raised by UAV 102 from safe altitudes. Various embodiments ofmultiple hoist systems that are suitable for use as multiple hoistsystem 104 will be described in more detail throughout this disclosure.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, UAV 102 communicates via network 106to on-board computing device 108. Network 106 encompasses any form ofwired or wireless communication. Wireless communication examples includeone or more networks, such as a public network or virtual privatenetwork “VPN.” Network 106 may include one or more local area networks(LANs) wide area networks (WANs), or any other communication network ormethod. In addition to Wi-Fi, other wireless examples include Bluetoothan infrared communication methods.

UAV 102 comprises on-board computing device 108. An example of on-boardcomputing device 108 includes a flight controller. Various flightcontrollers are available for use with UAV 102. One of ordinary skill inthe art will have an understanding of the availability and benefits ofsuch flight controllers. Though represented as a single component,on-board computing device 108 can be distributed in nature. That is, oneor more functions may be performed by a single component or by aplurality of components distributed throughout UAV 102. On-boardcomputing device 108 generally includes a processor that executesinstructions stored on computer memory. An example includes computingdevice 900 of FIG. 900.

On-board computing device 108 may receive instructions from remoteserver 110. To do so, on-board computing device 108 can be incommunication with a receiver (not illustrated) to receive signal 112from remote server 110. On-board computing device 108 may alsocommunicate to remote server 110 using transmitter 114 that sends signal116.

In general, receivers and transmitters comprise any system known in theart for sending and receiving communication signals, such as thoserepresented by signal 112 and signal 116. Examples may include receiversand transmitters that send and receive signals across a frequency bandof the electromagnetic spectrum. Some suitable short-distancetransmitter-receiver pairs are configured for use with 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz,and 5.8 GHz communication bands. Some over-the-horizon (OTH)transmitter-receiver pairs utilize telecommunications bands, such asthose supporting LTE, 4G, and 5G bands. Other exampletransmitter-receiver pairs use frequency bands associated with satellitecommunications. These are just examples, and other suitablecommunication methods may be used and are contemplated to be within thescope of this disclosure.

With reference back to FIG. 1, it should be understood that this andother arrangements described herein are set forth only as examples.Other arrangements and elements (e.g., machines, interfaces, functions,orders, and groupings of functions, etc.) can be used in addition to orinstead of those shown, and some elements may be omitted altogether forthe sake of clarity. Further, many of the elements described herein arefunctional entities that may be implemented as discrete or distributedcomponents or in conjunction with other components, and in any suitablecombination and location. Various functions described herein as beingperformed by one or more entities may be carried out by hardware,firmware, or software. For instance, some functions may be carried outby a processor executing instructions stored in memory as furtherdescribed with reference to FIG. 9.

Turning now to FIG. 2, a side view of example multiple hoist system 202is illustrated. As illustrated, multiple hoist system 202 is secured toUAV 200. Multiple hoist system 202 comprises body 206. Body 206 housesat least two hoists, including first hoist 208 having first line 209 andsecond hoist 210 having second line 211.

As shown, multiple hoist system 202 is secured to UAV 200 using securinghooks 204A and 204B. While there are two securing hooks illustrated inFIG. 2, any number of securing hooks, including a single securing hookmay be used. Here, securing hooks 204A and 204B are illustrated asaffixed to body 206 of multiple hoist system 202. Securing hooks 204Aand 204B can be affixed to an upper surface of body 206. In anotherexample, securing hooks 204A and 204B may be affixed to UAV 200.

In general, each securing hook can have a corresponding securing areafor which to secure. Securing areas can include a recessed area oropening shaped to receive securing hooks, or any other area of contactsuitable for releasably securing hooks, or a securing device, moregenerally. As illustrated, where securing hooks 204A and 204B areaffixed to body 206, the corresponding securing areas are found on UAV200. In an embodiment not illustrated, where securing hooks (or asecuring device, more generally) are affixed to a UAV, the securingareas may be located on the multiple hoist system body.

Securing hooks 204A and 204B are suitable for releasably securingmultiple hoist system 202 to UAV 200. To do so, securing hooks 204A and204B can be placed within corresponding securing areas on UAV 200.Securing hooks 204A and 204B can then be moved to a securing position toreleasably secure multiple hoist system 202.

It will be appreciated that other securing devices and methods forreleasably securing multiple hoist system 202 to UAV 200 can be used.The use of securing hooks, generally, is one suitable method that can beused with the present technology. However, others are contemplated andare intended to be within the scope of this disclosure. Among many otherexamples of securing devices, the use of locks and pins, threadedsystems, and latches may be used in lieu of or in addition to thesecuring methods illustrated and described herein.

Body 206 of multiple hoist system 202 houses first hoist 208 and secondhoist 210. As illustrated, a portion of first hoist 208 and second hoist210 extends outward from a bottom surface of body 206. Thus, in thisexample, body 206 houses only a portion of first hoist 208 and secondhoist 210, while another portion of first hoist 208 and second hoist 210is external to body 206. As will be described in more detail with otherexamples, the body generally comprises two or more hoists, but varioussuitable arrangements of the hoists within the body may be used. Forexample, hoists may be fully housed within the body.

Hoists, such as first hoist 208 and second hoist 210, are generallyconfigured to lower a load using a line, such as first line 209 andsecond line 211, respectively. In addition to lowering a load, somehoists can also be configured to raise a load. A load comprises anyweighted object, including the line itself. The load may comprise aparcel being delivered to a location by a carrier operating UAV 202.

In general, a number of hoists are suitable for use with the presenttechnology. One consideration in selecting a hoist is the weight of thehoists versus the amount of load the hoists can raise or lower. Whenusing larger UAVs that can carry parcels over long distances and havegreater payload capacity, relatively heavier hoists may be selected foruse. This provides the advantage of being able to raise and lowerheavier parcels. Alternatively, where smaller UAVs are utilized forshorter delivery distances and that have lower payload capacities,relatively smaller hoists may be selected for use. This provides theadvantage of weight reduction, allowing for more of the UAVs payloadcapacity to be dedicated to the parcel being delivered.

Some example hoists that can be used are commercial hoists, such aselectric overhead hoists. These hoists are generally powered by anelectric motor, which can receive a power supply from a power sourceassociated with multiple hoist system 202 or with UAV 200. Thesecommercial hoists are available in various weights and have various loadcapacities. In some embodiments, example hoists can include a multipletether system linked to a single motor that is able to selectivelyactuate each of a plurality of tether reels for raising and lower thelines. For example, a winch with a single motor and a gearbox typemechanism can engage several tether reels lined up on a shared axle,lowering or reeling up each of the lines independently. The traction oneach reel can be accomplished with an in-hub system, similar to thoseused on some bicycles, thus reducing the need to have more than onemotor and resulting in a reduction in weight for the hoists. However,other hoists can be used without departing from the scope of thetechnology described herein.

Since weight is generally a consideration in the selection of hoists,another suitable device that can be used is an electric filament reel.Commercial monofilaments are available that can bear heavy loads, yetare lightweight. Among others, some examples include nylon,polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate(PET), and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Otherbiodegradable-type filaments can be selected for environmentallyfriendly and safe delivery. It should be understood, that unlessexpressly stated otherwise, the use of “hoist” and “electric reel”within this disclosure are synonymous. That is, where it is stated anelectric reel may be used, it will be understood that a hoist could beused in addition to or alternatively, and vice versa.

Reels configured to utilize filament-type line are generally lighter inweight. Electric motors operable with such reels are available havingdifferent torque specifications. Similar to commercial hoists, theelectric motors having greater torque typically have a relativelygreater weight and size. The load that can be handled using an electricmotor and reel combination (also referred to as an “electric reel”)directly relates to the torque capacity of the motor. Thus, there can bea tradeoff between the torque specifications of an electric motoroperating a reel. In this way, for UAVs designed to carry lighter loads,a relatively smaller and lighter weight electric motor and reelcombination can be selected.

To provide some non-exclusive examples, an electric motor and reelcombination can be selected having a torque capacity of up to 5 lbs, upto 10 lbs, up to 15 lbs, up to 20 lbs, and so forth. Any of these may beused in conjunction with, for example, a monofilament line having arating of up to 5 lbs, up to 10 lbs, up to 15 lbs, up to 20 lbs, and soforth.

Reels may include line levelers, such as first line leveler 213 andsecond line leveler 214, illustrated in FIG. 2. Line levelers areoptional and may be provided to level the line placement along the reelwhen retracting a line. Thus, when retracting lines from higheraltitudes, line levelers can wind lines more evenly along a reel to keepthe line from accumulating in one place and binding during the nextextension of the line. Line levelers that are configured to moveparallel to the reel as the reel is turned can be utilized. Using linelevelers may provide the added benefit of lowering loads, includingparcels for delivery, from higher altitudes, thus increasing safety ofUAV delivery and allowing a UAV access to a greater number of locations,such as those where low altitude deliveries are difficult. While the useof line levelers is optional, a line leveler may be employed where UAVsdeliver parcels using the line from an altitude of up to 25 ft, up to 50ft, up to 75 ft, up to 100 ft, and so forth.

Lines can be wrapped around the body or the UAV to reduce direct forceapplied to the motor of the reel. With brief reference to FIG. 6, thefigure illustrates an example hoist 600 (e.g., an electric reel)employed for use with line 602. One or more curved contacts, such ascurved contacts 604A and 604B, can be employed to modify the forceapplied to electric reel 600. In this way, the force applied along line602 by an attached load can be distributed to other points of a multiplehoist system or a UAV. For example, a curved contact point can besecured to a body of the multiple hoist system. Curved contact pointscan be secured within the body or may be secured to an external surfaceof the body. In another example, curved contact points are secured to anexternal surface of the UAV. In this way, a line extends from anelectric reel to the curved contact points and downward in order tolower and raise loads.

In some embodiments, simple tension sensors can be used to indicate whenthe parcel is released from the line. In some example embodiments, thearm where the curved contact 604B is held can be spring loaded and apressure sensor can be attached thereto. Specifically, a spring-loadedsmall pulley that pushes against the line can result in tension in theline or lack thereof, such as if the parcel is resting on the ground orhas been disconnected from the line. This lack of tension sensed by thetension sensors can indicate to the flight controller or any of thecontrollers described herein when the parcels attached to the lineshould be released (e.g., the parcel is resting on the ground) and whenthe corresponding hoist should raise the line back up (e.g., the parcelis detached therefrom).

With reference back to FIG. 2, some aspects of multiple hoist system 202comprise a line cutter (not illustrated). Line cutters include anydevice for severing a line, such as first line 209 and second line 211.These may include systems having a sharp edge that is pressed againstthe line upon command from a flight controller or remote server. Otherdevices may apply heat or lasers to sever a line, and can also becontrolled based on instructions received from the flight controller orremote server. Line cutters may be used to sever lines in the event of aline bind or snag.

An example method for severing a line using a line cutter includesextending the line from the UAV. When the line is at an extendedposition, detecting a line overload. The line overload occurs where theforce applied to the line exceeds a safety threshold. The safetythreshold can be based on the torque capacity of the electric reel orthe line weight rating. The flight controller can detect that the safetythreshold has been exceeded based on an amount of thrust necessary tomaintain a target altitude. For example, the greater the downward forcebeing applied to the line, the greater the upward force applied by theUAV motors must be to maintain the target altitude. If the force appliedto the line increases, the flight controller will increase the upwardthrust from the UAV motors to counteract the increased force. When theupward thrust exceeds the safety threshold, the flight controlleractivates the line cutter and severs the line. This allows the extendedline to drop from the UAV and allows the UAV to continue navigation awayfrom the area where it severed the line. This increases the safety ofUAV delivery by allowing the UAV to continue safe navigation in theevent a malfunction with the line occurs. For instance, should a line belowered from a UAV and catch on an object, such as a tree, then linecutter can sever the line and allow the UAV to continue flight. Further,should a person accidently or maliciously pull an extended line duringUAV parcel delivery, the UAV can sever the line and navigate away, asopposed to this causing a downed UAV.

Continuing with FIG. 2, first hoist 208 and second hoist 210 areindependently operable. That is first hoist 208 can extend or retractline 209 independent of using second hoist 210. In this way, line 209can be extended or retracted without regard to the position of line 211.Similarly, second hoist 210 is operable independent of first hoist 208,in that second hoist 210 can extend or retract line 211 without regardto the position of line 209. Where more than two hoists are provided ina multiple hoist system, each hoist can be independently operated.

As an example, hoists can generally be operable under guidance of theflight controller. The flight controller and the hoist can be in wiredor wireless communication. In the example provided by FIG. 2, wiredcommunication channel 212 is illustrated as providing a connectionbetween components of UAV 200 and components of multiple hoist system202, such as providing a communication channel between a flightcontroller of UAV 200, and first hoist 208 and second hoist 210. Thus,the flight controller can independently operate each hoist.

An illustration of independently operable hoists is provided by FIG. 5.In this example, UAV 500 is shown as a VTOL six-rotor multicopter.Secured to a bottom of UAV 500 is multiple hoist system 502, whichcomprises first hoist 504 and second hoist 506. First hoist 504 isconfigured to raise and lower line 505. Attached to first line 505 isfirst parcel 508. Second hoist 506 is configured to raise and lowersecond parcel 510 using a second line, which is not illustrated becauseof the raised position of parcel 510.

Because each of first hoist 504 and second hoist 506 are independentlyoperable, parcels that are associated with each of the hoists can beindependently lowered or raised. As illustrated in FIG. 5, parcel 508can be lowered in the direction of first arrow 512 using first hoist504. Similarly, parcel 508 can be raised in the direction of secondarrow 514 using first hoist 504. In each of these events, whether firstparcel 508 is being raised or lowered, second parcel 510 can remain in aconstant position, shown in FIG. 5 as a raise position adjacent a lowersurface of multiple hoist system 502. Similarly, independent of themovement of parcel 508, parcel 510 can be raised or lowered by hoist506. In this way, UAVs can be configured to deliver multiple parcels todifferent delivery locations. That is, parcel 508 can be lowered to andreleased at a first delivery location, while second parcel 510 can belowered to and released at a second delivery location. This allows formultiple deliveries in between loading or unloading of parcels onto theUAV.

While hoists are generally independently operable, hoists can also beinstructed to raise or lower lines synchronously. An example of this isillustrated in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 illustrates UAV 700, which is representedas a VTOL six-rotor multicopter. Multiple hoist system 702 is secured toUAV 700. Here, an upper surface of multiple hoist system 702 is securedto a lower surface of UAV 700, which as previously described, themultiple hoist system 702 could be releasably secured or permanentlysecured to UAV 700. Multiple hoist system 702 comprises first hoist 704that operates to raise and lower first line 705 and second hoist 706that operates to raise and lower second line 707.

Here, first hoist 704 and second hoist 706 are instructed to raise orlower first line 705 and second line 707, respectively, in a synchronousmanner. That is, synchronously raising or lowering first line 705 andsecond line 707 comprises instructing first hoist 704 to raise or lowerfirst line 705 at the same rate as second hoist 706 is instructed toraise or lower second line 707. In this manner, UAVs are more versatile,in that they can carry various size and shape parcels. As illustrated inFIG. 7, UAV 700 can lower parcel 708 in the direction of first arrow 710or raise parcel 708 in the direction of second arrow 712 using twoattachment points, where each attachment point to parcel 708 isassociated with one of first line 705 or second line 707.

In another alternative embodiment, one or more of the hoists can also beinstructed to raise or lower lines synchronously using multiple lines ina single reel of a single hoist. Specifically, the single reel can useline levelers (as earlier described herein) and each line can bethreaded through a different curved contact or small pulley to spreadthem apart. This configuration can be used for one or more of thehoists, such that each hoist is connected to multiple lines. In oneexample embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 10, a UAV 1000 can have fourlines 1010 or tethers can be operated by a single reel 1020 and winch inthis manner, with the four lines 1010 separated via a plurality ofcurved contacts 1030. This advantageously allows each line to belighter, since the lines cooperatively share the load. This can alsoensure that the load or parcel is lowered without spinning, which allowsraising and securing the load or parcel in a correctposition/orientation. In yet another embodiment, a single motor cansimilarly and synchronously operate a plurality of reels.

With reference back to FIG. 2, hoists, such as first hoist 208 andsecond hoist 210 can include a line release and a line counter. The linerelease and the line counter can be either electronic or mechanical. Aline release is operable to release the line from electronic control ofthe hoist. In this way, a force applied to the line will allow the lineto extend from the hoist. For example, a hoist may have a load attachedto an associated line. By releasing the line from electronic control ofthe hoist, the line begins to extend away from the hoist due to theforce applied to the line by the load. Thus, for example, a parcel maybe lowered from an altitude by releasing the hoist based on the force ofgravity applied to the line because of the attached parcel. As such, aUAV carrying a parcel can lower the parcel downward to a deliverylocation based on gravitational force, rather than expend power toelectronically lower the parcel. A line counter generally works to applyan opposing force to the line. It may further reestablish electroniccontrol by the hoist.

Using the line release and the line counter, a parcel may be loweredfrom an altitude above a delivery location by a UAV. The parcel can beinitially be lowered by releasing the line using the line release andallowing gravity to lower the parcel. The line counter may engage at apredetermined rate of extension by the line. That is, to avoid continuedconstant acceleration and allowing the parcel to descend too rapidly,the line counter can be applied to reduce downward acceleration to up tozero. At a predetermined altitude of the parcel above the deliverylocation, the line counter can begin to slow the parcel down. Thepredetermined altitude can be any altitude, including as examples, 3 ft,5 ft, 10 ft, 15 ft, and so forth. The line counter can furtherreestablish electronic control by the hoist. Using this method, once theparcel is lowered below the predetermined parcel altitude, the hoist canthen engage in electronic control of the line's extension. The hoist canthen electronically control the rate at which the parcel descendsdownward to the delivery location. By doing so, the parcel can be placedon the ground as its downward velocity is reduced to approach zero underelectronic control of the hoist. As such, the parcel can gently be placeonto a surface and released.

Turning now to FIG. 3, a side view of example multiple hoist system 300is provided. Multiple hoist system 300 comprises body 302. Here, a sidesurface of body 302 is removed to view within body 302. An upper surfaceof body 302 is illustrated as having securing hooks 304A and 304B, whichcan be used for releasably securing multiple hoist system 300 to a UAV,not illustrated in FIG. 3.

As provided by FIG. 3, multiple hoist system 300 comprises two hoists,first hoist 306 and second hoist 308. Each of the hoists is at leastpartially housed within body 302. As noted above, first hoist 306 andsecond hoist 308 may be embodied as electric reels. Motors for operatingthe electric reels are not illustrated, as motors may be included withinfirst hoist 306 and second hoist 308, or may be external to the hoists.First hoist 306 and second hoist 308 can be secured or at leastpartially secured to body 302. As illustrated, communication channel 314provides communication to first hoist 306 and second hoist 308 from aUAV (not illustrated). Communication channel 314 is intended torepresent any number of communication channels, and in one example, isintended to represent a channel for providing power supplied from a UAVpower source to a first motor associated with first hoist 306 and asecond motor associated with a second hoist 308. Communication channel314 may also provide a communication bus from each of first hoist 306and second hoist 308, such that each of the hoists can receiveinstructions from a flight controller and operate in accordance with theinstructions, such as to extend or retract a line, and the rate at whichto do so.

One example method for operating first hoist 306 and second hoist 308 isto rotationally secure the hoists to body 302. An example methodutilizes cylindrical shaft 310 and cylindrical shaft 312 to rotationallysecure first hoist 306 and second hoist 308, respectively. Using thismethod, cylindrical shafts may be secured to the hoists. By rotating acylindrical shaft, the hoist (again, which may include a reel of anelectric reel) is rotated, allowing it to extend or release acorresponding line. Here, a motor may engage the cylindrical shaft, suchthat operation of the motor rotates the cylindrical shaft, therebyrotating the hoist.

Another method that may be used in addition to or in lieu of that justdescribed, includes a stationary securing mechanism that secures thehoist to the body. As examples, brackets, threaded systems, rivets,among many other examples can be used to secure a hoist to a body of amultiple hoist system. FIG. 3, illustrates an example stationary arm 316that secures first hoist 306 and another example stationary arm 218 thatsecures second hoist 308 to body 302. Using stationary securing devices,a motor may be provided as part of a hoist, such that the motor canrotate a portion of the hoists to raise and lower a line. Variousmethods of securing hoists to a body of a multiple hoist system will berecognized by those having ordinary skill in the art, and a suitablemethod can be selected based on the choice of hoist being utilized withthe multiple hoist system.

Turning now to FIG. 4, a top and side perspective view of examplemultiple hoist system 400 is provided. Multiple hoist system 400comprises body 402 having upper surface 403. One or more securing hooks,such as securing hooks 404A and 404B, are affixed to upper surface 403and can be used to releasably secure multiple hoist system 400 to a UAVfor parcel delivery. In another embodiment, multiple hoist system 400may be permanently secured to the UAV. Body 402 fully houses first hoist406 and second hoist 408. First hoist 406 is associated with first line412, while second hoist 408 is associated with second line 414. Firstline 412 extends from inside body 402 to an outside of body 402 throughfirst opening 416 on bottom surface 410 of body 402. Second line 414 isalso illustrated as extending from the inside of body 402 to the outsideof body 402 through second opening 418 on bottom surface 410 of body402.

With reference now to FIG. 8, a block diagram for an example method 800for delivering parcels using a multiple hoist system is provided. Themethod includes, at block 810, loading a first parcel onto a UAV bysecuring the first parcel to a first line associated with a first hoistof the UAV and loading a second parcel onto the UAV by securing thesecond parcel to a second line associated with a second hoist of theUAV, where each hoist is independently operable. This can be performed,in some embodiments, after releasably engaging the securing device ofthe body with the securing area of the UAV. However, as described above,the body can alternatively be fixed to or integral with the UAV withoutdeparting from the scope of the technology herein.

At block 820, the UAV is navigated to a first delivery locationassociated with the first parcel. From an altitude above the firstdelivery location, the method includes, at block 830, lowering the firstparcel downward to the first delivery location using the first hoist andreleasing the first parcel at the first delivery location. At block 840,the UAV is navigated away from the first delivery location to a seconddelivery location associated with the second parcel. At block 850, thesecond parcel is lowered downward to the second delivery location usingthe second hoist, and the second parcel is released at the seconddelivery location. At block 860, the UAV is navigated away from thesecond delivery location.

In addition to the steps described above, some embodiments of the method800 can further comprise the flight controller receiving indication thatthe first parcel or the second parcel has reached the first deliverylocation or the second delivery location. As a result of thisindication, the flight controller can further instruct release of thefirst parcel or the second parcel from the first line or the secondline. For example, a claw mechanism (not shown) may be communicablycoupled to the flight controller and actuatable to close or open uponcommands therefrom. However, other mechanisms such as hooks or the likecan attach to and detach from the first and second parcels withoutdeparting from the scope of the technology described herein. Uponrelease of the first parcel or the second parcel, the flight controllercan further instruct the first hoist or the second hoist to retract thecorresponding first line or second line via the motor or any otheractuators used by the first or second hoists.

With reference to FIG. 9, an example computing device 900 is provided.Computing device 900 includes bus 910 that directly or indirectlycouples the following devices: memory 912, one or more processors 914,one or more presentation components 916, input/output ports 918,input/output components 920, and illustrative power supply 922. Bus 910represents what may be one or more busses (such as an address bus, databus, or combination thereof). Although the various blocks of FIG. 9 areshown with lines for the sake of clarity, in reality, delineatingvarious components is not so clear, and metaphorically, the lines wouldmore accurately be grey and fuzzy. For example, one may consider apresentation component such as a display device to be an I/O component.Also, processors have memory. We recognize that such is the nature ofthe art, and reiterate that the diagram of FIG. 9 is merely illustratesan example computing device that can be used in connection with one ormore embodiments of the present technology. Distinction is not madebetween such categories as “workstation,” “server,” “laptop,” “hand-helddevice,” etc., as all are contemplated within the scope of FIG. 9 andreference to “computing device.”

Computing device 900 typically includes a variety of computer-readablemedia. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can beaccessed by computing device 900 and includes both volatile andnonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example,and not limitation, computer-readable media may comprise computerstorage media and communication media.

Computer storage media include volatile and nonvolatile, removable andnon-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storageof information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures,program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but isnot limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memorytechnology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical diskstorage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage orother magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used tostore the desired information and which can be accessed by computingdevice 600. Computer storage media excludes signals per se.

Communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions,data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated datasignal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includesany information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means asignal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed insuch a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example,and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as awired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such asacoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of any ofthe above should also be included within the scope of computer-readablemedia.

Memory 912 includes computer storage media in the form of volatile ornonvolatile memory. The memory may be removable, non-removable, or acombination thereof. Example hardware devices include solid-statememory, hard drives, optical-disc drives, etc. Computing device 900includes one or more processors that read data from various entitiessuch as memory 912 or I/O components 920. Presentation component(s) 916present data indications to a user or other device. Examples ofpresentation components include a display device, speaker, printingcomponent, vibrating component, etc.

I/O ports 918 allow computing device 900 to be logically coupled toother devices including I/O components 920, some of which may be builtin. Illustrative components include a microphone, joystick, game pad,satellite dish, scanner, printer, wireless device, etc.

Embodiments described above may be combined with one or more of thespecifically described alternatives. In particular, an embodiment thatis claimed may contain a reference, in the alternative, to more than oneother embodiment. The embodiment that is claimed may specify a furtherlimitation of the subject matter claimed.

The subject matter of the present technology is described withspecificity herein to meet statutory requirements. However, thedescription itself is not intended to limit the scope of thisdisclosure. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed ordisclosed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, toinclude different steps or combinations of steps similar to the onesdescribed in this document, in conjunction with other present or futuretechnologies. Moreover, although the terms “step” or “block” might beused herein to connote different elements of methods employed, the termsshould not be interpreted as implying any particular order among orbetween various steps herein disclosed unless and except when the orderof individual steps is explicitly stated.

As used in this disclosure, the word “delivery” is intended to mean both“to drop off” and “to pickup,” unless one of the options isimpracticable. For example, a “delivery vehicle” is a vehicle capable ofpicking up a parcel and dropping off a parcel at a location. Words suchas “a” and “an,” unless otherwise indicated to the contrary, include theplural as well as the singular. Thus, for example, the constraint of “afeature” is satisfied where one or more features are present. Also, theterm “or” includes the conjunctive, the disjunctive, and both (a or bthus includes either a or b, as well as a and b).

From the foregoing, it will be seen that this technology is one welladapted to attain all the ends and objects described above, includingother advantages that are obvious or inherent to the structure. It willbe understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utilityand may be employed without reference to other features andsubcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of theclaims. Since many possible embodiments of the described technology maybe made without departing from the scope, it is to be understood thatall matter described herein or illustrated the accompanying drawings isto be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: an unmanned aerialvehicle (UAV) having a securing area; and a multiple hoist systemattached to the UAV and comprising: a body attached to the securing areaof the UAV, and at least two hoists attached to the body, each of the atleast two hoists being operable to independently extend a first linefrom a first hoist and a second line from a second hoist.
 2. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises a securingdevice, wherein the body is attached to the UAV via the securing deviceof the body releasably engaging the securing area of the UAV.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the first hoist comprises a first reeloperable for selectively extending and retracting the first line,wherein the second house comprises a second reel operable forselectively extending and retracting the second line.
 4. The apparatusof claim 3, wherein at least one of the two hoists comprises at leastone line leveler movable parallel to the first reel or the second reelas the first reel or the second reel rotates for evenly winding thefirst line or the second line during retraction thereof.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 3, further comprising one or more curved contactpoints integral with or fixed relative to the body, wherein the firstline or the second line contacts the one or more curved contact pointscreating tension in the first line or the second line between the one ormore curved contact points and the first reel or the second reel.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a controller and line cuttersoperable to sever at least one of the first line and the second line inresponse to instructions from the controller.
 7. The apparatus of claim6, wherein the controller is operable to send the instructions to theline cutters when at least one of upward thrust of the UAV and forceapplied to the first line or the second line exceeds a safety threshold.8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the at least two hoists areselectively operable to synchronously extend the first line from a firsthoist and the second line from a second hoist.
 9. The apparatus of claim1, wherein the multiple hoist system comprises a plurality of curvedcontact points, wherein at least one of the at least two hoistscomprises a first reel operable for synchronously extending andretracting the first line and a plurality of additional lines, whereinthe plurality of additional lines each extend in a different directionfrom the first reel and a different direction from each other todifferent ones of the plurality of curved contact points and each hangdownward from the curved contact points.
 10. The unmanned aerial vehicleof claim 1, further comprising a UAV flight controller and acommunication channel, wherein the communication channel providescontrol signals to the at least two hoists from the UAV flightcontroller.
 11. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 1, wherein each ofthe at least two hoists comprises a motor and a cylindrical shaftrotatable via the motor to extend or release the first line or thesecond line.
 12. The unmanned aerial vehicle of claim 11, wherein one ormore of the at least two hoists further comprise a line releaseconfigured to selectively disengage the cylindrical shaft from the motorthereby allowing gravity force to release the first line or the secondline and a line counter configured to selectively prevent or oppose thegravity force from further releasing the first line or the second linebased on altitude.
 13. A method for delivering parcels with an unmannedaerial vehicle (UAV) via a multiple hoist system, the method comprising:loading a first parcel onto a first line associated with a first hoistof the multiple hoist system; loading a second parcel onto a second lineassociated with a second hoist of the multiple hoist system, wherein thefirst hoist and the second hoist are operable independently of eachother; navigating the UAV, via a flight controller of the UAV, to afirst delivery location associated with the first parcel; lowering, viathe first hoist and the first line, the first parcel downward to thefirst delivery location from an altitude above the first deliverylocation; navigating the UAV, via the flight controller, away from thefirst delivery location to a second delivery location associated withthe second parcel; lowering, via the second hoist and the second line,the second parcel downward to the second delivery location from analtitude above the second delivery location; and navigating the UAV, viathe flight controller, away from the second delivery location.
 14. Themethod of claim 13, further comprising a step of receiving with theflight controller indication that the first parcel or the second parcelhas reached the first delivery location or the second delivery locationand instructing release of the first parcel or the second parcel fromthe first line or the second line.
 15. The method of claim 14, furthercomprising the flight controller instructing the first hoist or thesecond hoist to retract the first line or the second line uponindication that the first parcel or the second parcel is released fromthe first line or the second line.
 16. The method of claim 14, whereinthe indication that the first parcel or the second parcel has reachedthe first delivery location or the second delivery location is providedby a tension sensor operable to sense a lack of tension in the firstline or the second line.
 17. The method of claim 13, further comprisingreleaseably attaching a body supporting the first and second hoists tothe UAV via a securing device of the body releasably engaging thesecuring area of the UAV.
 18. The method of claim 13, further comprisingthe flight controller sending instructions to line cutters of themultiple hoist system to sever at least one of the first line and thesecond line in response to indications that at least one of upwardthrust of the UAV and force applied to the first line or the second lineexceed a safety threshold.
 19. The method of claim 13, furthercomprising selectively disengaging, via instructions from the flightcontroller, a rotatable shaft or reel from a motor of the first hoist orthe second hoist such that gravity force lowers the first parceldownward to the first delivery location or the second parcel downward tothe second delivery location.
 20. A system of for delivery of multipleparcels to multiple locations, the system comprising: an unmanned aerialvehicle (UAV) having a flight controller; and a multiple hoist systemattached to the UAV and comprising: a body attached to the UAV, and atleast two hoists attached to the body, each of the at least two hoistsbeing operable to independently extend a first line from a first hoistand a second line from a second hoist, wherein the flight controller hasone or more processors configured to: navigate the UAV to a firstdelivery location; command the first hoist to lower the first linedownward to the first delivery location from an altitude above the firstdelivery location; navigate the UAV away from the first deliverylocation to a second delivery location; command the second hoist tolower the second line downward to the second delivery location from analtitude above the second delivery location; and navigate the UAV awayfrom the second delivery location.